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“However, as the IDC can only deal with matters in relation to existing statutory officers of the council, there is no need to proceed with the disciplinary hearing, due to the resignation of Mr Suarez.”

Three top officers - Mr Suarez, former head of legal services Bill Norman and chief operating officer Peter Bates - were being investigated following allegations of misconduct by the council’s investigation and disciplinary committee (IDC).

All three had been suspended.

The council stressed the suspensions are a neutral act taken in the interests of the council and the individuals.

The investigation is estimated to have cost the council tax payer £1m so far.

Mr Norman and Mr Suarez have both resigned from the council and Mr Bates remains suspended.

Last week we reported how Mr Suarez contacted the Express by letter to confirm he had resigned on last Monday.

The former chief exec did not give his reasons for resigning but thanked staff, residents, town, parish and other councillors for their well wishes.